Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need:
- Large pot (for cooking pasta)
- Skillet (for cooking bacon)
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Oven
Step-by-Step Recipe for Cheesy Chicken Bacon Broccoli Pasta Bake
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Broccoli
If using fresh broccoli, blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. If using frozen, simply thaw it. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the Bacon
In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet, crumble, and set aside. Leave a bit of the bacon fat in the skillet for added flavor, or drain if desired.
4. Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, blanched broccoli, crumbled bacon, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well coated and mixed.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. Pour the pasta mixture into the baking dish and spread it out evenly.
6. Add Topping
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the pasta bake.
7. Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Pasta Choices: Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer or have on hand.
- Protein Options: This recipe is versatile; you can substitute the chicken with cooked sausage, turkey, or even shrimp.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for added flavor.
- Add More Veggies: Other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition and color.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Chicken Bacon Broccoli Pasta Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You may want to cover it with foil to prevent the top from over-browning.
Freezing:
This dish can also be frozen before baking. Assemble the pasta bake in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta bake is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few delicious sides to round out your dinner:
- Garlic Bread: Serve with slices of warm garlic bread for dipping.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the bake.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair with a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.